North Brabant province launches wolf monitoring program in Midden-Brabant

The provincial government of North Brabant announced that it will actively monitor a pair of wolves that appear to be establishing territories in forest areas of Midden-Brabant, including the Chaamse Bossen. The monitoring effort involves the wildlife organisation Zodion (formerly Zoogdiervereniging) and the wolf‑sightings database BIJ12, and aims to map the animals’ range, behaviour and any potential breeding.

Since January, nine sheep have been confirmed killed by wolves in the region, with DNA analysis verifying the predator. No damage to livestock or attacks on people have been reported. Authorities advise the public to stay calm, keep dogs on short leashes, maintain distance, make noise and gestures if a wolf approaches, and never feed or chase the animals. Residents are encouraged to report any wolf sightings or tracks, preferably with photos or video, to the BIJ12 wolf‑reporting point.

The initiative seeks to improve knowledge of wolf recolonisation in the Netherlands and to develop appropriate management strategies for coexistence with the returning predators.